Station Shitara

Discover the Heart of Okumikawa: Where Nature, Tradition, and Taste Unite

Nestled in the pristine highlands of Okumikawa, Shitara roadside station sits at the confluence of three major rivers—Toyokawa, Yatagawa, and Tenryu—surrounded by lush forests and fertile farmland. More than a rest stop, it’s a living celebration of local heritage, blending agriculture, culture, and craftsmanship. At the heart of the station lies the Okumikawa Folk Museum, offering immersive insights into regional history, while nearby, visitors can savor farm-fresh produce at the Shirei Market or enjoy seasonal dishes at Shirei Dining Hall.

Engage with the community through hands-on experiences like sake brewing at Hōraisen Sake Lab, explore the preserved wooden train car from the former Takauchi Line, or stroll through the tranquil Tsugu Highland Green Park. With year-round events—from moon-viewing festivals to summer harvest games—Shitara offers a dynamic, authentic journey into the soul of rural Aichi.

Nestled at the source of the丰川, 矢作川, and 天竜川, Shitara roadside station offers a rare experience: sampling authentic kamishimo (a traditional rice cake made with mountain spring water) at Tsuguya, a family-run shop where the recipe has been passed down for generations. The only place in the region to taste kamishimo made with water from the very rivers that feed the valley, it’s a flavor deeply rooted in local heritage.

Beyond food, Shitara’s unique Okumikawa Folk Museum showcases life in the remote highlands through preserved tools, textiles, and oral histories—offering a rare, intimate window into a vanishing rural way of life.

• Best Arrival Time: Visit between 9:00–10:00 AM to secure a seat at the 清嶺食堂 (Seirei Restaurant) before the lunch rush, as it only serves meals from 11:00 AM to 14:00 PM and often fills up by 11:30 AM.

• Hidden Gems: Head to the 清嶺市場 (Seirei Market) and look for the local rice from Setaka Town displayed near the front counter—this is a limited seasonal offering available only from August to October.

• Weekend Special: On weekends, visit the ほうらいせん酒らぼ (Hōraisen Sake Lab) between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM to participate in the "Sake Tasting & Bottle Labeling" session, where you can create your own custom label for a small bottle of locally brewed sake.

• Best Photo Spot: Walk to the former Takauchi Line Railway Car Display just outside the main building and take a photo with the wooden 1968-era "Moha 14-type" train car, which is only open during the 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM operating hours.

• Unique Experience: Participate in the "War History Exhibition" at the Okumikawa Folk Museum, which runs from August 15 to October 31, 2025, and features original wartime diaries titled “My Record of August 15, 1945” from local residents.

• Best Value Purchase: Buy the Setaka-style "Kurogane-style" pickled vegetables at the Seirei Market—they are only available on Fridays and Saturdays and are sold in limited quantities, often selling out by 2:00 PM.

• EV Charger Tip: If you’re driving an electric vehicle, use the two designated EV charging spots located near the main entrance and arrive before 11:00 AM to avoid peak usage, as the charging station is frequently in use during afternoon hours.

Spring (March-May): Enjoy fresh bamboo shoots at the market and visit the seasonal "お月見の会" event in October.

Summer (June-August): Participate in the mountain-themed "わなげやま" event on August 11 and sample summer vegetables.

Autumn (September-November): Experience the autumn "お月見の会＆ビアガーデン" on October 4.

Winter (December-February): Explore the heritage of the old Taniguchi Line railway and the special exhibition on post-war memories.